Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe (Chewy Centers, Crispy Edges & Easy)

The smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies can lift anyone's spirits. Whether it’s pouring rain or a sunny day, these sweet treats have a special way of creating happiness. If you want to bake the best chocolate chip cookies ever, you're in the right place! This recipe guarantees chewy centers and crispy edges, plus it’s so simple that even those new to baking can perfect it.

Let’s get started on baking these delightful cookies!

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 cup salted butter (room temperature)

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup packed light-brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 large egg

• 1 egg yolk

• 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder

• 1 teaspoon corn starch

• 1 3/4 cups chopped semisweet or dark chocolate (2-3 bars)

  
  

Using high-quality chocolate bars is key to maximizing flavor. Consider brands like Ghirardelli, which are known for their rich taste.

Directions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, corn starch, and espresso powder together. Then set aside for later.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sea salt until light and fluffy. This typically takes 2-3 minutes.

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then add your vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. To avoid tough cookies, don’t overmix.

6. Gently fold in the chocolate chunks. You may save about a 1/4 cup to add more on top before baking if desired.

7. Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to help the flavors deepen and intensify.

8. Take your cookie dough out to rest on your counter for about 15-20 minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat. Then, using a cookie scoop or for larger cookies, an ice cream scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2-3 inches of space between each cookie.

9. If you saved some extra chocolate, roll the top of your cookie balls in the chocolate, then bake for 8-9 minutes. They should be golden around the edges while the centers appear slightly underbaked.

10. Take the cookies out of the oven and sprinkle some more sea salt on top. Then let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. If your kitchen is super warm and your cookies spread, no need to panic! Take a small 4-5” ring mold or even a bowl, or large cup and place over your cookies and gently move in a circle to push it back to the middle.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cookie

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a silky texture.

  
  

• Don’t Skip the Sea Salt: This simple ingredient balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your cookies.

  
  

• Get Creative with Chocolate: Don’t hesitate to combine types of chocolate chips or add nuts for extra crunch. For instance, mixing dark chocolate and toffee pieces can add unique flavors.

  
  

• Monitor the Baking Time: All ovens can differ slightly. Keep a close watch on your cookies to catch them at the ideal baking point.

  
  

How to Store Your Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain fresh for about a week. If you want to enjoy cookies down the line, freeze the dough balls. When you're ready, just bake them fresh for a warm treat!

Final Thoughts on Baking Cookies

With this straightforward and tasty recipe, you can create the best chocolate chip cookies featuring chewy centers and crispy edges. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these cookies are sure to impress.

Get your apron on, preheat that oven, and look forward to the pure joy of making and enjoying homemade chocolate chip cookies. Happy baking!

Now, share your cookie-baking stories with family and friends. You might earn the title of cookie hero in your home!